The World Economic Forum has named 34 outstanding Chinese in its annual list of Young Global Leaders for 2008, Xinhua News Agency reported.

A total of 245 distinguished youth from all over the world were selected from all walks of life, including people working in business and politics.

WEF said in a statement that the honor is bestowed each year to recognize the top 200 to 300 young leaders from around the world for their professional accomplishments, commitment to the society and potential to contribute to shaping the future of the world.

Among the 34 selected Chinese youths, 31 are from the Chinese Mainland and three are from Hong Kong. Most are entrepreneurs.

The 245 young global leaders come from 65 countries including 64 from East Asia, 58 from Europe, 12 from the Middle East and North Africa, 45 from North America, 24 from South Asia, 21 from sub-Saharan Africa and 21 from Latin America.